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Chimera on Ovechkin: ‘I have no doubt he’s going to score a big goal’

Washington Capitals v New York Rangers

Washington Capitals v New York Rangers

NHLI via Getty Images

The Washington Capitals haven’t been getting point production from their big top line of Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom and Joel Ward lately, but the company line seems to be “it’s just a matter of time.”

Jason Chimera more or less predicted a big goal for Ovechkin while speaking with the Washington Post about Game 6 on Saturday.

“You can’t keep a guy like that down too long,” Chimera said. “He’s got his looks, he’s playing hard, you’re not going to stop him. You can limit his looks but he’s going to get those looks and they’re going to go in eventually tomorrow. I have no doubt he’s going to score a big goal tomorrow.”

The attempts have been there, at least to an extent. Ovechkin has 11 shots on goal in this three-game drought, although only two came in Game 5.

Backstrom’s only had two SOG in this span (all in Game 5), yet that isn’t overly concerning considering his role as a passer. Joel Ward hasn’t been shy to shoot (nine SOG in three games, including five in the past one).

It all gives at least some credence to the belief that the Caps’ first line is getting its looks.

Actually, the real company lines are “you need everyone to step up” (Barry Trotz to the Post) and “we don’t care where the offense comes from” (Brooks Orpik to the Post).

That said, considering how tight this series has been, a breakthrough from Ovechkin - Backstrom - Ward could be enough to punch a ticket to the Eastern Conference finals.